Virgo Clemens – Ora Pro Nobis

A meditation from St. Alphonsus de Liguori on this beautiful feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, our Mother…

God, who is love, came on earth to enkindle in the hearts of all the flame of His Divine love; but in no heart did He enkindle it so much as in that of His Mother; for her heart was entirely pure from all earthly affections, and fully prepared to burn with this blessed flame. Thus Saint Sophronius says, that ‘Divine love so inflamed her, that nothing earthly could enter her affections; she was always burning with this heavenly flame, and, so to say, inebriated with it.’ Hence the heart of Mary became all fire and flames, as we read of her in the sacred Canticles: “The lamps thereof are fire and flames; fire burning within through love…

While Mary was in the world, her heart was so tender and compassionate toward all that she interceded for the needs of others even without being asked such as the story of the wedding at Cana. Now that Mary is in heaven, does she forget us? Far from it!

Jesus himself revealed this to St. Bridget, for one day he allowed her to hear him thus addressing his holy mother: “My Mother, ask me what thou wilt.” And thus is her Son constantly addressing Mary in heaven, taking pleasure in gratifying his beloved Mother in all that she asks. But what does Mary ask? St. Bridget heard her reply: “I ask mercy for sinners.”

Let us confidently approach the throne of God for all of our needs and the needs of others through the Immaculate Heart of Blessed Virgin Mary.

O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children, we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today, especially …(special intention).

We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your gentle care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help all of us, Holy Mother, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever.Amen.